Crowns and Bridges

Crowns and Bridges services offered in Alamo, CA

If you have a damaged or missing tooth, dental crowns and bridges can help restore both function and appearance. At Alamo Family Dentistry in Alamo, California, Sushma Balakrishna, DDS, offers custom-made restorations designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Whether you’re repairing a weakened tooth or replacing one that’s missing, crowns and bridges are durable, long-lasting solutions that can restore your smile and your confidence. To learn more, call the office or request an appointment online.

Crowns and Bridges Q & A

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a protective cap placed over a tooth that's damaged, worn down, or weakened. It restores the tooth's shape, size, strength, and appearance, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile without discomfort or worry. Crowns are typically recommended when a filling isn't enough to support the tooth.

Common uses for crowns include:

Protecting a tooth after a root canal
Restoring a tooth that's chipped, broken, or severely worn
Covering a large filling when there isn't enough natural tooth left
Improving the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth
Topping a dental implant or anchoring a dental bridge

Crowns are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth and are crafted from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It literally "bridges" the gap where a tooth is missing by anchoring an artificial tooth (called a pontic) to the surrounding natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges are fixed in place and restore normal function so you can chew and speak comfortably again.

Bridges not only fill gaps in your smile—they also help maintain alignment by preventing neighboring teeth from shifting out of place. Left untreated, missing teeth can lead to bite problems, jaw discomfort, and increased wear on your remaining teeth.

Benefits of crowns and bridges

Long-lasting and durable with proper care
Natural-looking results that blend with your smile
Restore the ability to eat and speak normally
Help preserve jaw alignment and oral function
Prevent further damage or complications

What to expect during the procedure

Treatment typically takes two visits. During the first, Dr. Balakrishna will prepare the tooth or teeth, take impressions, and place a temporary restoration. Your final crown or bridge is custom-designed in a dental lab and placed during your second visit, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.

With regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, your crown or bridge can last 10 years or more.